Abstract

The hybrid structured photo-electrode for dye-sensitized solar cells was fabricated based on the composites of TiO_2 nanoparticles and nanowires. Three samples with different hybrid structures were prepared with 17 vol%, 43 vol%, and 100 vol% nanowires. The energy conversion efficiency was enhanced from 5.54% for pure nanoparticle cells to 6.01% for the hybrid structure with 17 vol% nanowires. For the hybrid structured layers with high nanowires concentration (43 vol% and 100 vol%), the efficiency decreased with the nanowire concentration, because of the decrease of specific surface area, and of thus decreased current density. The random orientations of TiO_2 nanowires can be preserved by the doctor blade process, resulted in the enhanced efficiency. The hybrid structured TiO_2 layer can possess the advantages of the high surface area of nanoparticles and the rapid electron transport rate and the light scattering effect of nanowires.

• Keywords: Dye-sensitized solar cell;Hybrid structure;Titania nanowire;Screen printing;Doctor blade;